How to Plan a Cheap Family Vacation to Ohio

Many families are planning a Staycation this summer because of the economy. But if you live close to Ohio, you might be able to take a fun family vacation on a budget! Here's how:

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. 
   A Baseball Game is a Great Family Outing

   Attend a BASEBALL GAME. Ohio has two major league baseball teams, the Cleveland Indians and the Cincinnati Reds. You can find budget friendly seats in the upper decks for every game or look for special deals for families on both of the teams' websites (links listed below). Some of the specials even include food and drink vouchers, so make sure to look for those.
   
   In Toledo, Ohio, you can attend a Mud Hens minor league baseball game. The cost for a minor league game is a fraction of the cost of a major league game and many games offer freebies for the kids.
   
   All of these teams have fireworks nights, too, so if possible, try to see a game with a fireworks show, to get 2 bangs for your buck!

2. 
   Visit the Zoo

   Go to the zoo! One of the best zoos in the country is the Cincinnati Zoo. Look for discount tickets at local Cincinnati grocery stores, online and at AAA offices, if you are a AAA Member.
   
   There are many zoos in Ohio, make sure to look for discounts online or even free admission day specials.

3. Ride the coasters! Ohio has TWO amazing amusement parks, Cedar Point and Kings Island. Look for discount coupons online and at local grocery stores, as well as AAA offices, if you are a member. Or enter the park at the dinner hour for substantial savings off admission.

4. Check out hotel accomodations before booking. TripAdvisor.com is a great website to find out about the best hotel for your family and budget. Read other travelers recommendations or travel woes for the hotels in the area you wish to stay in. You can also see the average price of the rooms.
   
   Once you decide which hotel you want to stay at, visit their website directly to book your travel. Many hotels offer discounts with a AAA membership, so make sure to ask.

Tips & Warnings

• Join AAA. Not only will you save money on many attractions and hotels, but if you have car trouble during your vacation, they are only a phone call away.

Resources

• Discover Ohio
• Cleveland Indians Baseball
• Cincinnati Reds Baseball
• Toledo Mud Hens Baseball
• Mahoning Valley Scrappers Baseball
• Cincinnati Zoo
• Cleveland Metroparks Zoo
• Toledo Zoo
• Cedar Point
• Kings Island
• Trip Advisor
• Book: The 100 Best Vacations to Enrich Your Life

[Susanh]

on 6/22/2009 Wonderful article about Ohio! I have lived here my whole life and most of the time people are leaving Ohio, not coming here on purpose.

Your recommendations are terrific. I would also add Holmes County (Amish Country) and Lebanon for antiquing.

5*****